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coconut curry chicken

Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken Recipe – A Comforting, Family-Friendly Weeknight Dinner

This Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken is cozy, fragrant, and full of warm flavor. With tender chicken simmered in a rich coconut curry sauce, it’s a quick, family-friendly weeknight dinner that feels comforting and effortless.

Ingredients

  • Main Ingredients:
  • 1 ½ lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp oil (coconut or olive oil)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1–2 tsp brown sugar (optional)
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • Optional Add-Ins:
  • 1–2 cups baby spinach
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne

Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a large pan. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds.
  2. Add curry powder, turmeric, paprika, and salt. Stir and let spices bloom for 1 minute.
  3. Add chicken pieces and stir until lightly browned.
  4. Pour in coconut milk, chicken broth, tomato paste, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
  5. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, covered, until chicken is tender.
  6. Add spinach or bell peppers in the last 3–5 minutes if using.
  7. Finish with lime juice to brighten the sauce.
  8. Serve warm over rice, quinoa, or with naan.

Notes

Use full-fat coconut milk for the best creamy texture. Blooming the spices is key to deep flavor. Letting the curry rest for a few minutes helps the sauce thicken. This recipe gets even better the next day. Add more coconut milk or broth if you prefer extra sauce.

  • Author: Ouma Carter